McKinney sentencing goes to jury

McKinney arrives at the courthouse on Monday

March 16, 1998
Web posted at: 2:16 p.m. EST (1916 GMT)

FORT BELVOIR, Virginia (CNN) -- A military jury Monday began considering punishment for former Sgt. Maj. Gene McKinney, who was found guilty of obstructing justice in a high-profile sexual misconduct court-martial.

McKinney, who had been the Army's top enlisted man, was acquitted on 18 counts of sexual misconduct, including allegations that he groped or crudely pressured six military women for sex since 1994.

McKinney and his wife, Wilhemina, were relaxed as they testified during the sentencing phase earlier in the day.

The lone conviction was based on a tape-recorded telephone call in which he urged his chief accuser to lie to Army investigators.

McKinney faces up to five years in prison, a reduction in rank or a dishonorable discharge for the conviction. He could have been sentenced to 55 1/2 years behind bars if convicted of all charges.

The jury resumes deliberations

"I would ask you to allow Wilhemina and I to move on with some honor in terms of the 29 years of service I have provided and the 25 she has provided since we have been married," he told jurors.

"Whatever the outcome of this thing is, Wilhemina and I have said we're going to continue to do what we do best, which is to serve young people and soldiers, whether in uniform or civilian life. ... I'd like to do that with some form of honor," he said.

McKinney said he decided to retire because of the embarrassment of the charges and the court-martial had brought upon himself and the Army. He has submitted his retirement request and expects to leave the Army shortly after the trial.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

Related stories:

• McKinney sentencing phase under way - March 16, 1998
• Attorney: McKinney 'pleased' and 'disappointed' at verdict - March 13, 1998
• McKinney not guilty on 18 of 19 counts in sexual misconduct trial - March 13, 1998
• McKinney jury resumes deliberations Friday - March 12, 1998

Related sites:

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• U.S. Army
• Army Policy on EO and Sexual Harrassment
• Department of Defense: Sexual Harassment

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